Italy Star

The Italy Star is a British military campaign medal established in 1945 to recognize the service of British and Commonwealth personnel during the Italian Campaign of World War II. The Italian Campaign took place from 1943 to 1945 and involved the Allied powers, including the United Kingdom, the United States, and other countries, fighting against the Axis powers, led by Germany and Italy, in Italy and the surrounding region. The Italy Star honors the commitment and sacrifice of those who served in this challenging and pivotal campaign that helped bring about the end of the war.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Italy Star, personnel must have served in a qualifying area of operation, which included Italy, Sicily, Greece, Yugoslavia, the Aegean area, or the Dodecanese Islands between 11 June 1943 and 8 May 1945. The medal could be awarded to members of the British Armed Forces, the Merchant Navy, and other civilian personnel who served in direct support of military operations. The minimum service requirement for the Italy Star is one day of service on land, at sea, or in the air within the designated operational area.

Design

The Italy Star is designed as a six-pointed bronze star, with the points of the star representing the compass points. The obverse of the medal features a central design of the Royal cypher of King George VI, surrounded by the words "The Italy Star". The reverse of the medal is plain, traditionally engraved with the recipients name.

Ribbon

The ribbon of the Italy Star features the colours of the Italian flag, with vertical stripes of red, white, and green.

The Italy Star serves as a symbol of the service and sacrifice of British and Commonwealth personnel who served during the Italian Campaign of World War II. It is a testament to their dedication and commitment in the fight against tyranny and a reminder of the challenges they faced in a crucial and difficult campaign that helped bring about the end of the war.